“In the news at the moment is IBM’s announcement of what it
claimed to be the largest commercial use Linux so far. The project
will provide 2 Linux based eServers in each of Lawson Inc.’s 7,600
stores. Lawson are a chain of “convenience” stores based in Japan.
The new system will feed Windows based “Loppi” self service
multi-media terminals. Customers will use these terminals to
download music and video files, buy airline and concert tickets and
perform other on-line tasks. As part of the deal IBM will also
supply deployment / installation services and some application
migration assistance.”
“Does this announcement have any significance for the Linux
world at large? Given that IBM vice president, John Callies,
claims this to be the “largest Linux installation in the world” and
that over 15,000 Linux servers are involved the answer is a big
“Yes”, or as they say in Japan, “Hai”. This implementation simply
demonstrates that Linux can be a feasible solution to real world
business requirements. The applications here are very “web
centred” and as such fit into an idealised Linux profile almost
perfectly. At the same time IBM are providing a concrete example of
their support for Linux in business, following on from their well
documented public announcements of backing. To all intents and
purposes this simply illustrates that “sensible” decisions can be
made when it comes to platform choice. If you have a requirement
that can be fulfilled by applications running on Linux and other
Operating System platforms; if the solutions available can receive
suitable support from a major supplier; then it becomes just a
standard business choice. If it fits, use it. If it does not, use
something else. As with all such choices, cost, application
suitability and support must be the driving factors.”